SOUTH AFRICA CALLS FOR WITHDRAWAL OF ISRAELI FORCES FROM GAZA STRIP

PRETORIA– South Africa has reiterated its view that the Israel Defence Force must withdraw from the Gaza Strip and bring to an end the violent and destructive incursions into Palestinian territories.

The South African government has strongly condemned the latest act of violent aggression by Israeli armed forces in Gaza, which led to the death of about 17 Palestinians, with others reported to be injured.

In a statement issued by the Department of International Relations and Co-operation (DIRCO) here Wednesday, the South African government said the violence in the Gaza Strip will stand in the way of rebuilding Palestinian institutions and infrastructure.

“The actions of the Israeli armed forces present yet another obstacle to a permanent resolution to the conflict, which must come in the form of two states, Palestine and Israel, existing side-by-side and in peace,” the statement quoted International Relations and Co-operation Minister Lindiwe Sisulu as saying.

“South Africa aligns itself with those members of the United Nations calling for an independent inquiry into the killings, with a view to holding to account those who are responsible.”